User assistance system for an interactive facility

ABSTRACT

An interactive system for a facility, such as a parking facility, a warehouse or some other type of facility, includes a user interface for detecting empty parking spaces, moving vehicles and personnel. The user interface can be associated with a “smart” light fixture or other component mounted in the parking structure. A control subsystem includes a system processor which interacts with a user interface. The user interface communicates directly with a user and with a smart card whereby parking transactions are automatically recorded and debited to an account. A key fob transmitter transmits signals to a smart fixture for summoning emergency assistance. The system processor utilizes GPS coordinates for guiding users, locating parking spaces, and identifying smart light fixtures receiving emergency assistance signals. The system can provide various information about the presence, absence and movement of vehicles and individuals within various structures. The system can either be installed as an original manufacturer component in other equipment or retrofit.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/955,269, filed Sep. 18, 2001; which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent Ser. No. 09/425,461 filed Oct. 22,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,292,110 issued Sep. 18, 2001; which is acontinuation-in-part U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/150,417 filedSep. 9, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,808 issued Sep. 26, 2000; which isa continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/866,892filed May 30, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,945,925, issued Aug. 31, 1999.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to facilities, and inparticular to a user assistance system for an interactive facility.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

[0003] Facilities comprise a broad class of structures adapted for useby inhabitants, visitors, customers, tenants and other individuals withaccess to them. Parking facilities, warehouses, stadiums, arenas,venues, office buildings, institutional buildings and hotels comprisecommon examples. Parking garages, particularly in urban areas, oftenhave large numbers of parking spaces distributed among multiple floors.Using such massive facilities tends to be inefficient, because motoristsmust initially find available parking spaces, and later must locatetheir vehicles. Many of the customers of such parking facilities areunfamiliar with them and hence can become disoriented.

[0004] Lighting fixtures are commonly installed in parking structuresfor safety and security purposes. Since parking garages are often usedduring the hours of darkness, artificial illumination is desirable toreduce collision risks, enhance safety, etc. Moreover, parking garagesare sometimes regarded as risky from the standpoint of personal attack.Such risks can be enhanced by the vulnerability of motorists as theyenter and leave their vehicles and are thus preoccupied with retrievingvehicle keys, locking and unlocking vehicle doors, loading or unloadingitems in the vehicle, etc. Such activities tend to preoccupy motorists,and assailants have been known to time their attacks for such moments ofvulnerability.

[0005] Another security problem with parking structures is that vehiclesparked therein afford numerous hiding places for would-be assailants.Other hazards associated with parking structures include collision risksassociated with vehicles entering and leaving parking spaces. Forexample, when a vehicle backs out of a parking space, its driver'srearward vision is often limited, thus increasing the chances of acollision with a vehicle in the drive aisle. Another common problemencountered by motorists in parking structures relates to locatingavailable spaces. Considerable amounts of unnecessary driving oftenoccur as motorists traverse the drive aisles in large parking structuresseeking empty parking spaces.

[0006] A partial solution to safety and security issues associated withparking structures is to provide illumination by mounting light fixturestherein. However, the normal design standards for parking structureillumination require only relatively low illumination levels, e.g.,about 0.5 foot candles per square foot.

[0007] Light fixtures have previously been used for security purposes bycoupling them with motion detection switching systems. For example, U.S.Pat. No. 5,381,323; No. 5,434,764 and No. 5,442,532 disclose lightingfixtures with motion or proximity detectors. Such lighting fixtures canbe used in areas in which illumination is desired when personnel arepresent. They tend to discourage intruders and would-be assailants bydepriving them of the cover of darkness.

[0008] Motion sensing electronics are well known in the art. Forexample, the Ravas U.S. Pat. No. 3,459,961 discloses a movementresponsive light control means. The Ravas '961 patent motion sensorutilizes a doppler shift in a transmitted signal frequency to detectmovement and thus trigger a firing circuit, which in turn switches aload (e.g., a light) to an on condition. Other sensor systems currentlyavailable utilize sonar and infrared technology to detect objects andobject movement.

[0009] Heretofore there has not been available a detection system for alight fixture with the safety and security advantages of the presentinvention. The present invention addresses some or all of the foregoingsafety and security issues as they relate to interactive facilities ingeneral, and as they relate to user assistance systems therefor inparticular.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In the practice of the present invention, a detection system isprovided for an interactive facility, such as a parking structureincluding a parking space, a drive aisle and a ceiling. The detectionsystem includes a sensor subsystem with vehicle and personnel sensors;an indicator/display subsystem with empty space, moving vehicle andpersonnel indicators; and a control subsystem. The detection system canbe associated with light fixtures or other components mounted in thestructure, or it can be installed as a stand-alone component. Thecontrol subsystem includes memory, switching and logic units forreceiving and storing data corresponding to predetermined situations andswitching the indicators in response to signal inputs from the sensors.The control subsystem can store GPS coordinates of particular parkingfacility features and can interface with a vehicle equipped with a GPSnavigation system to assist the driver in locating a parking space. Asmart card is provided for recording the use of a parking facility by auser and can be utilized for controlling access to different areaswithin a parking facility. In another embodiment of the invention, a keyfob transmits messages to the system for summoning assistance. Thesystem can determine the location of a user by identifying a particularlight fixture receiving a transmission from the user's key fob. Thesystem can be retrofit to existing equipment and components, includingbut not limited to light fixtures, or it can be incorporated in theoriginal manufacture of such equipment and components. The system cancommunicate various information to parking facility users. For example,it can identify certain floors, levels or rows with available spaceswithin a parking structure. Moreover, various devices can be employedfor communicating interactively with users. For example, display devicescan be installed at certain locations, such as entrances to parkingfacilities. Alternatively, the display devices can be associated withthe user, such as a personal data assistant (“PDA”), a display device inthe dashboard of a vehicle, etc.

OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The principle objects and advantages of the present inventioninclude: providing an interactive facility; providing a user assistancesystem therefore; providing a “smart” light fixture; providing aninteractive parking facility; providing a detection system for a lightfixture; providing such a detection system which includes a vehicledetector; providing such a detection system which includes a personneldetector; providing such a detection system which is adapted formounting in different types of light fixtures; providing such adetection system which is adapted for mounting in light fixturesinstalled in parking structures; providing such a detection system whichis adapted for use in light fixtures installed in high bay industrialapplications; providing such a light fixture which includes aprogrammable logic controller; providing such a detection system whichcan enhance safety and security in facilities where it is installed;providing an interactive parking facility which utilizes the GlobalPositioning System (GPS) interactively with a user; providing aninteractive parking facility which utilizes a smart card for interfacingwith a user; providing an interactive parking facility which utilizes akey fob for interacting with a user; providing such a system which canbe retrofit to existing components and equipment; providing such asystem which can be incorporated in the original manufacture ofequipment and components; providing such a system which is adapted forstand-alone applications; providing such a system which is adapted forapplications where it is combined with other equipment and components,such as light fixtures; providing such a system which is adapted forcommunicating the availability of parking spaces in various rows, levelsand floors within a facility; providing such a system which is adaptedfor installation in warehouses for collision avoidance and othernavigational applications; and providing such a system, which iseconomical to manufacture, efficient in operation, capable of a longoperating life and particularly well adapted for the proposed usesthereof.

[0012] Other objects and advantages of this invention will becomeapparent from the following description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration andexample, certain embodiments of this invention. The drawings constitutea part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of thepresent invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013]FIG. 1 is a plan view of a parking facility application of thepresent invention.

[0014]FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the light fixture thereof,shown mounted on a ceiling of the parking facility.

[0015]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a fresno lens for mounting over aLED thereof.

[0016]FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of the light fixture taken generallyalong line 4-4 in FIG. 2 and generally shows the installation of thedetection system in the light fixture.

[0017]FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the detection system, showing asensor subsystem, an indicator/display subsystem and a control subsystemthereof.

[0018]FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of a high bay industrial fixtureapplication of a light fixture with a detection system embodying thepresent invention and comprising a first modified embodiment thereof.

[0019]FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view thereof taken generally along line7-7 in FIG. 6 and generally shows the installation of the detectionsystem in the light fixture.

[0020]FIG. 8 is a plan view of a parking facility application of thepresent invention, comprising a second modified embodiment thereof.

[0021]FIG. 9 is a side elevational view thereof.

[0022]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a laser reflector of the secondmodified embodiment detection system.

[0023]FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the light fixture taken generallyalong line II-II in FIG. 9 and generally shows the installation of thedetection system in the light fixture.

[0024]FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a detection system comprising athird modified embodiment of the present invention and incorporatinginteractive global positioning system (GPS) components.

[0025]FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an interactive parking facilitycomprising a fourth modified embodiment of the present invention andincluding a smart card feature.

[0026]FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an interactive parking facilitycomprising a fifth modified embodiment of the present invention andincluding a key fob transmitter for user communication with the controlsystem.

[0027]FIG. 15 is an elevational view of a vehicle dashboard showing adisplay in a system comprising an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention.

[0028]FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of an interactive parking facilitycomprising a seventh modified embodiment of the present invention andincluding a telecommunications device associated with a parking facilitycustomer.

[0029]FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of an interactive parking facilitycomprising an eighth modified embodiment of the present invention andincluding a personal data assistant (“PDA”) associated with a parkingfacility customer.

[0030]FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of an interactive parking facilitycomprising a ninth modified embodiment of the present invention andincluding an internet/intranet connection to a parking facilitycustomer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0031] I. Introduction and Environment

[0032] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention aredisclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosedembodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodiedin various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional detailsdisclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as abasis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching oneskilled in the art to variously employ the present invention invirtually any appropriately detailed structure.

[0033] Certain terminology will be used in the following description forconvenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, thewords “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “rightwardly” and “leftwardly” willrefer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Thewords “inwardly” and “outwardly” will refer to directions toward andaway from, respectively, the geometric center of the embodiment being Idescribed and designated parts thereof. Said terminology will includethe words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of asimilar import.

[0034] Referring to the drawings in more detail, the reference numeral 2generally designates a detection system incorporated in a light fixture4 having a base 4 a and a lens 4 b. Without limitation on the generalityof useful applications of the detection system 2, it is shown mounted ina parking structure 6 including a plurality of parking spaces 6 a, b, c;a drive aisle 6 d at the ends of the parking spaces 6 a, b, c; and aceiling 6 e located thereover.

[0035] The detection system 2 generally comprises a sensor subsystem 8,an indicator/display subsystem 10 and a control subsystem 12. Thedetection system 2 is designed to detect both vehicles 14 and personnel16.

[0036] II. Sensor Subsystem 8

[0037] The sensor subsystem 8 includes a vehicle sensor 18 mounted onthe fixture base 4 a and directed at a respective parking space 6 a. Thevehicle sensor 18 is adapted to provide a stationary vehicle presencesignal to indicate occupancy of the parking space 6 a, and a movingvehicle signal to indicate movement of a vehicle 14 with respect to theparking space 6 a. A personnel sensor 20 is directed to the vicinity 6 fof the parking space 6 a and is adapted for emitting a “person present”signal if a person 16 is detected within such vicinity 6 f.

[0038] The vehicle and personnel sensors 18, 20 can comprise anysuitable sensor. For example, infrared sensors are available fordetecting movement of heat-emitting objects, such as personnel andmoving vehicles. Infrared sensors could be incorporated in both thevehicle sensor 18 and the personnel sensor 20. For detection of astationary vehicle, the vehicle sensor 18 could employ sonar to transmitand receive signals for detecting the presence of a vehicle 14 in theparking space 6 a. An optional, additional sensor is shown at 19 (FIG.5).

[0039] III. Indicator/Display Subsystem 10

[0040] The indicator/display subsystem 10 includes a space availableindicator 22, a person present indicator 24 and a moving vehicleindicator 26. The indicators 22, 24, 26 can be suitably color-coded,i.e., green, yellow and red respectively. The indicators 22, 24 and 26can include, for example, light emitting diodes (LEDs) 22 a, 24 a, 26 arespectively. Each indicator 22, 24, 26 can also include a fresno lenses22 b (green), 24 b (yellow), 26 b (red) respectively, which lenses aremounted on the light fixture lens 4 b immediately outside respectiveLEDs 22 a, 24 a, 26 a. The fresno lenses 22 b, 24 b, 26 b function toenlarge the illumination patterns created by the LEDs 22 a, 24 a, 26 afor greater visibility to an approaching motorist. An optional,additional LED is shown at 27 (FIG. 5).

[0041] IV. Control Subsystem 12

[0042] The control subsystem 12 includes a programmable logic controller(PLC) 28 connected to a power source 30, which can comprise analternating current source shared with the light fixture 4, a battery,or a combination AC and a rechargeable battery. Battery-poweredcapabilities for the detection system 2 have the advantage of providingemergency operation in the event of a power interruption. Thus, even ifthe light fixture 4 were not functioning, the detection system 2 couldprovide safety information to detect the presence of an intruder, amoving vehicle, etc.

[0043] The PLC 28 includes a memory unit 32, a switching unit 34 and alogic unit 36, all suitably interconnected with each other and with thesensor and indicator/display subsystems 8, 10 by suitable wiring 21. Thememory unit 32 is preferably programmable to receive data correspondingto predetermined conditions, such as the types of infrared signatures towhich the control system will respond, and the sonar signature of avehicle located within the parking space 6 a. A suitable source ofphotoelectric sensors is Banner Engineering Corporation, P.O. Box 9414,Minneapolis, Minn. 55440.

[0044] The logic unit 36 processes signals from the sensor subsystem 8and actuates the switching unit 34 to illuminate or deilluminate theappropriate indicators 22, 24, 26. It will be appreciated that the PLCcan be programmed to respond to a variety of different conditions asappropriate.

[0045] V. First Modified Embodiment Detection System 102

[0046] A detection system 102 comprising a first modified embodiment ofthe present invention is shown in FIGS. 6-7 and is installed in a highbay industrial type fixture 104 including a fixture base 104 a mountedon the parking structure ceiling 6 e and a fixture reflector 104 bmounted on and depending downwardly from the fixture base 104 a.

[0047] The ceiling 106 e on which the fixture 104 is mounted can belocated at a substantial height, e.g., 15 feet to 25 feet high. Lightfixtures such as that shown at 104 are commonly used for such relativelyhigh installations.

[0048] The detection system 102 is otherwise adapted for operating in amanner similar to the detection system 2, and includes a PLC 108 and apower source 130, similar subsystems to those described above.

[0049] VI. Second Modified Embodiment Detection System 202

[0050] A detection system 202 comprising a second modified embodiment ofthe present invention is shown in FIGS. 8-10 and is incorporated in ahigh bay industrial fixture 204 like the fixture 104 described abovewith a base 204 a and a reflector 204 b. The fixture 204 is adapted formounting on a parking or industrial structure ceiling 206 e, which canbe located a substantial distance, e.g., 15 to 25 feet, above a floorsurface. The detection system 202 includes a PLC 208, such as the PLC 8described above with sensor, indicator/display and control subsystems,and a power source 230.

[0051] The detection system 202 includes vehicle and personnel sensors218, 220 as described above, and also includes an approaching vehiclesensor 214. A signal from the approaching vehicle sensor 214 isprocessed by the detection system 202 to determine a range and speed ofan approaching vehicle 216.

[0052] The PLC 208 includes a laser light source means 218 for emittinga directional laser beam 222. The detection system 202 further includesa laser reflector 220 mounted at approximately nominal visual height(e.g., about 4 to 8 feet) within the path of the laser light beam 222.The detection system 202, in addition to the functions described above,responds to the proximity of the approaching vehicle 216 when apotential hazard situation exists. For example, the detection system 202can cause the laser light source 218 to emit a pulsating signal, visibleon the laser reflector 220 to an approaching driver, when theapproaching vehicle is within 25 feet. The pulsating signal can signifyeither a vehicle backing out of the parking space 6 a, a person 216 inthe vicinity 224 thereof, or both. When the approaching vehicle 216comes within a second predetermined range, e.g., 12 to 18 feet, thedetection system 202 can cause the laser light beam 222 to be emittedcontinuously from the laser light source 218, thus indicating that theapproaching vehicle 216 should stop. When the potential hazard leavesthe vicinity of the parking space 6 a, the laser light source 218 woulddeactivate, thus signaling the approaching driver to proceed.

[0053] The system 202 can provide output in various formats in order toaccommodate different situations and conditions and report same users.For example, the output format variables can include color,continuous/pulsating operation, graphics, text, audio output, digitalelectronic output, etc. Output transmission can be accomplished withvarious suitable equipment and methodologies. For example, the outputconnections can be hardwired, wireless transmission, RF, digital,analog, fiber-optic, etc. Without limitation on the generality of usefulinformation codes, the following facility information code could beapplicable in certain applications, such as a high-bay warehouseinstallation. A pulsating yellow light would indicate the presence of amoving vehicle. A pulsating red light would indicate the presence of aperson. A constant red light would indicate that a space is occupied. Agreen light would signal an available space and its location. Variousother color schemes and light operating effects can also be utilizedwith the system of the present invention.

[0054] In such a high-bay installation, such as a warehouse, the system202 could be utilized for detecting moving vehicles, such as forklifts,and for providing sufficient position-based warning to other vehicles.Thus, the system 202 would function in an anti-collision mode. Mountingthe sensors at or near a ceiling would give them a significantly greaterfield vision whereby they would essentially be looking down onrelatively large areas within the facility. Thus, coverage of an entirewarehouse can be achieved relatively efficiently.

[0055] VII. Third Modifled Embodiment Detection System 302

[0056] A detection system 302 comprising a third modified embodiment ofthe present invention is show in FIG. 12 and utilizes the globalpositioning system (“GPS”) for user assistance in locating destinations,such as a parking space 306, and discrete objects 314, such as a vehicleor a person. The detection system 302 includes a system processor 308which can be connected by any suitable means, e.g. hard-wired network orwireless, to multiple stations 310. The stations 310 can be associatedwith particular areas within a parking structure, and can incorporatethe sensor, indicator/display and control subsystems of the detectionsystems 2, 102 and 202 described above.

[0057] The system processor 308 is adapted for two-way communication,through either hard-wired or wireless interfaces with a user transceiver318 which includes differential global positioning system (DGPS)capabilities.

[0058] A preferred form of global positioning system technology involvesa differential global positioning system (DGPS) which utilizes a fixedreference receiver 320, for example located in proximity to the systemprocessor 308. The fixed reference receiver 320 receives positioningsignals from one or more satellites in a satellite array 322. Thesatellite array 322 consists of a constellation of satellites in orbitover the earth. The satellites' positions are continually monitored forGPS reference purposes. The user transceiver 318 can accompany a visitorto or user of the facility equipped with the detection system 302, andcan comprise, for example, a hand-held unit or a unit mounted in avehicle. The user transceiver 318 can comprise a GPS navigational systemof the type currently being installed in many vehicles.

[0059] In operation, the system processor 308 can store GPS coordinateinformation relating to predetermined locations, such as parking spaces.The system processor 308 also receives information, for example, fromthe stations 310, which can include GPS coordinate information formoving and transient objects, such as vehicles and personnel. The usertransceiver 318 interacts with the system processor 308 to provide auser/visitor with such information as the location of available parkingspaces in reference to the position of the user/visitor, as well asinformation concerning moving and transient objects. The user/visitorcan thus effectively be guided to a destination, for example, anavailable parking space, by the interactive cooperation of the usertransceiver 318, the system processor 308 and the stations 310. Theability of a user/visitor to receive relatively precise directions tosuch destinations as available parking spaces, exits from parkingfacilities, emergency assistance, etc. has the potential for makingfacilities more convenient and safe to large numbers of users/visitors.

[0060] Emergency assistance features can also be incorporated into thedetection system 302. For example, the system 302 can accommodateinteraction between the system processor 308 and emergency services,such as medical emergency, police and fire departments. Thus, thelocation of an emergency situation or the origin of an emergencyassistance request from a user transceiver 318 can be instantly relayedto appropriate emergency assistance personnel. By equipping emergencypersonnel with compatible GPS navigational equipment, response times canbe shortened and emergency assistance services can be significantlyimproved.

[0061]Differential GPS Explained and GPS—A Guide to the Next Utility, byTrimbel Navigational Limited, Sunnyvale, Calif. 94088-3642 (1993) areincorporated herein by reference.

[0062] VIII. Fourth Modified Embodiment Interactive System 402

[0063] An interactive system 402 for a parking facility 404 comprising afourth modified embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 13and includes a “smart”, i.e. interactive, card 406 adapted for encodingwith such information as user identification, level of parking privilegeauthorization, etc. A use authorization 408 interacts with the smartcard 406 to establish a predetermined credit limit and to record parkingtransactions to the respective users' accounts. The smart card 406 canfunction as a prepaid credit card by which the user prepurchases parkingservices and is entitled to use same until the credit is depleted oruntil additional credits are prepurchased. Alternatively, the smart card406 can function as a debit card which automatically deducts funds froman account as it is being used, much like an ATM card. The smart card406 and the use authorization 408 can interact in a variety of differentarrangements for facilitating the efficient and convenient use of theparking facility 404 and for paying for such usage. By way of furtherexample, smart cards 406 can be produced with predetermined face valuesrepresenting their purchase prices. When the cards' face values havebeen depleted, they can be disposed of and additional cards purchased.

[0064] The system 402 includes a Level I user interface 410 whichinterfaces the smart card 406 with a system processor 416. The userinterface 410 includes an input device 412, such as a magnetic stripreader, a card reader, a keyboard, a keypad, a bar code scanner, a touchscreen, or any other suitable input device 412 capable of receiving datafrom the user directly or by means of the smart card 406. The userinterface 410 also includes an output device for communicating with theuser. The output device 414 can comprise a display device such as a CRTmonitor, an LCD, an LED, an audio speech- based annunciator, a printer,etc.

[0065] The system processor 416 processes the data received from thesmart card 406 by way of the input device 412, processes same, andcommunicates to the user by way of the output device 414. The systemprocessor 416 also communicates with one or more stations 418 which canbe equipped with smart fixtures such as those described above. Forexample, the light fixtures within the parking facility 404 can activateto indicate locations of available parking spaces. Still further, theavailability and the location of such parking spaces can be communicatedto the users through the user interface output device 414. The systemprocessor 416 can be programmed to interface with the smart card 406 anddebit same for parking facility usage. Since the smart card 406 hasmemory 407, the system processor 416 can make the appropriate dataentries in the smart card 406 by means of the interface 410. A GPSsubsystem 417, the configuration and function of which are describedabove, is coupled to the system processor 416.

[0066] The system 402 further includes a Level II user interface 420including an input device 422 and an output device 424, which can besimilar to the input/output (I/O) devices 412, 414 described above. TheLevel II user interface 420 can be used for controlling access to arestricted area 419 of the parking facility 404 such as a VIP orpreferred customer area. Moreover, the restricted access level can beemployed for security purposes by providing a higher level of securitythereat than in the general parking area. For example, tenants in acommercial building can be provided with Level II privileges, whereasvisitors and others can be limited to Level I parking facility access.The Level II user interface 420 interacts with the smart card 406 in thesame manner as the Level I user interface 410. The Level II userinterface 420, by means of the system processor 416, can provide accessto additional, preferred parking with a station 426, which can include asmart fixture such as those described above.

[0067] It will be appreciated that additional levels of accessibilitycan be provided within the parking facility 404 and accommodated bysuitable additional user interfaces.

[0068] IX. Fifth Modified Embodiment Interactive System 502

[0069] The reference numeral 502 generally designates an interactivesystem for a parking facility 504 comprising a fifth modified embodimentof the present invention and including a key fob transmitter 506. Thekey fob transmitter transmits signals received by a smart fixture 510associated with a station 508 within a parking facility 504. The key fobtransmitter 506 can employ any type of transmission means, includingvarious wireless, hardwired, fiber optic, etc. means for transmittingsignals and data. For example, a relatively low-powered unittransmitting in the infrared or rf range can be employed. The key fob506 transmission system can be designed in relation to the physicalspacing of the smart fixtures 510 whereby a transmitted signal wouldalways be received by at least one smart fixture 510. The smart fixture510 is linked to the system processor 512, which can determine theapproximate location of a transmitting key fob 506 utilizing a GPScomponent 513, such as that described above, connected to the systemprocessor 512. For example, the GPS coordinates of a respective smartfixture 510 receiving a signal transmitted by a key fob 506 could beidentified by the system processor and employed to direct emergencypersonnel to the approximate location of the transmitting key fob 506.The system processor 512 includes external communications 514 fortransmitting data and signals externally to the parking facility 504. Amessage recipient 516 includes a receiver 518 for receiving signals anddata transmitted by the external communications 514 of the systemprocessor 512. The message recipient 516 can comprise, for example, asecurity service, a monitored control consol for the parking facility504, law enforcement officials, or a telecommunications network adaptedfor relaying the transmitted signals to emergency assistance 520. Thekey fob 506 can be equipped with a suitable input device, such as a keypad or an array of switches, for transmitting different types of signalsdepending upon the particular circumstances for which assistance isrequired. These can include pre-programmed codes for summoning medicalassistance, security assistance, vehicle assistance, directions, etc.The key fob 506 can be combined with a transmitting key fob of the typeused for unlocking the doors of a vehicle, flashing its lights, etc.

[0070] X. Sixth Modified Embodiment Interactive System 602.

[0071]FIG. 15 shows a dashboard 602 of a vehicle. The dashboard 602mounts a display device 604 (e.g., a CRT, LCD, color monitor or otherdisplay device embodying the present invention. The display device 604is adapted for locating the vehicle in relation to a particularstructure, utilizing the global positioning system (GPS) coordinates,which are variable for the moving vehicle and fixed for a particularstructure.

[0072] Such a vehicle-mounted display can be used in conjunction withany of the applications of the invention discussed above, i.e. forassistance in locating available parking spaces and for other vehiclenavigational applications.

[0073] XI. Seventh Modified Embodiment Interactive System 702.

[0074] The reference numeral 702 generally designates an interactivesystem comprising a seventh modified embodiment of the present inventionas shown in FIG. 16. The system 702 is adapted for use in conjunctionwith a parking facility 704 including a user interface 706 with areceiver component 708 adapted to receive signals from an input 716 andan output 709 adapted to communicate with a user 711. The user interface706 can utilize any suitable circuitry or structure for interacting andcommunicating with a user 711, including wireless transmissions,hardwired connections, electronic displays, audible signals, etc. Theparking facility 704 includes a system processor 710 with an externalcommunications component, such as a radio, internet connection,telephone line, etc. 712. The system processor 710 receives and storesGPS coordinates 714 corresponding to various locations within saidfacility, such as the locations of individual parking spaces, entrances,exits (ingress/egress), elevators, attendants, etc. The receiver (e.g.,a smart fixture) 708 is linked, e.g. wirelessly, hardwired or otherwiseto an input 716, which can comprise a sensor located within the parkingfacility 704 for sensing the presence of individuals, vehicles, etc.

[0075] Externally of the parking facility 704 a message recipient 718has a telecommunications device 720 associated therewith. Withoutlimitation on the generality of useful applications of the system 702,the telecommunications device 720 can comprise a cellular telephone, atwo-way radio, a pager or any other telecommunications device. Thetelecommunications device 720 can optionally be equipped to transmitemergency messages adapted for receipt and response by an emergencyassistance source 722.

[0076] In operation, the system processor 710 receives and storesvarious pertinent data, some of which is fixed in the form of the GPScoordinates of the parking spaces and other parking facility components.Other data is variable, such as the availability of spaces, the presenceof pedestrians and vehicles, parking rates, weather conditions, etc.Such data is transmitted through the external communications component712 to a message recipient 718, such as a customer or a prospectivecustomer who receives same through his or her telecommunications device720. It will be appreciated that the telecommunications device 720 cancomprise anyone of a wide variety of such devices, including hand-heldcellular telephones, two-way radios, pagers, etc.

[0077] Another class of suitable telecommunications devices comprisesbuilt-in devices, which can be installed in the vehicle whenmanufactured. The telecommunications device 720 can provide fortransmitting information back to the external communications component712 at the system processor 710. For example, a parking space could bereserved, availability queried, directions requested, etc. Thus, aninteractive exchange of information can occur between the systemprocessor 710 and the message recipient 718 in order to facilitatebusiness transactions therebetween.

[0078] The system 702 can also functioning in a stand-alone mode wherebythe user interface 706 interactively communicates directly with users711 and controls a predetermined area, for example, a particular parkingstructure or parking lot.

[0079] XII. Eighth Modifled Embodiment Interactive System 802.

[0080]FIG. 17 shows an interactive system 802 comprising an eighthmodified embodiment of the present invention. The interactive system 802is adapted for use in connection with a parking facility 804 including astation 806 with a smart fixture 808. The parking facility 804 alsoincludes a system processor 810 with an external communicationscomponent 812 adapted to receive, store and transmit GPS coordinates814. An input 816 is provided for inputting information data to thesystem processor 810 via the smart fixture 808.

[0081] The system processor 810 communicates with a message recipient818 via the external communications component 812, the later having apersonal data assistant (“PDA”) associated therewith. A wide variety ofPDA's are available, including “Palm Pilot” devices, “Blackberry”devices, and various other PDA devices. The link between the externalcommunications component 812 and the PDA 820 can be wireless, hardwired, fiber optic, etc. Emergency assistance 822 can be coupled to themessage recipient 818 by any suitable means, including the PDA 820.

[0082] In operation, the PDA 820 can receive, process, store,retransmit, etc. information and data received from the system processor810. Still further, the PDA can be interactively linked back to thesystem processor by any suitable means, including a telecommunicationsdevice or through an interactive (two-way communication) PDA.

[0083] XIII. Ninth Modified Embodiment Interactive System 902.

[0084]FIG. 18 shows an interactive system 902 comprising a ninthmodified embodiment of the present invention. The system 902 is adaptedfor a parking facility 904 including a station 906 with a smart fixture908. The smart fixture 908 is coupled to a system processor 910 with anexternal communications component 912. The system processor 910 receivesGPS coordinates 914. The smart fixture 908 receives input from a sensor916, such as those described above, and communicates same to the systemprocessor 910.

[0085] A message recipient 918 has a personal computer 920 associatedtherewith, which can comprise, for example, a vehicle-mounted, on-boardcomputer. A link 921 between the external communications component 912and the computer 920 can comprise the “Internet” (global computernetwork), an intranet, or some other suitable wired, wireless, hardwired, fiber optic or other link for transmitting data and information.Emergency assistance 922 can be coupled to the message recipient 918.

[0086] A display device 924 is coupled to the system processor 910 andincludes multiple displays, which can comprise light-emitting components926 a, b, c. The components 926 a, b, c can display different colors ordifferent display conditions, such as pulsating orconstant-illumination. The system 902 can be preprogrammed tocommunicate various conditions with different colors of displays ordifferent illumination conditions, e.g., pulsating, continuous, etc. Forexample, pulsating yellow can indicate the presence of a moving vehicle.Pulsating red can indicate the presence of a person. Constant red canindicate an occupied parking space and constant green can indicate anavailable parking space. Various other combinations of colors and/orillumination conditions can be utilized within the scope of the presentinvention.

[0087] In operation, the computer 920 can receive information from thesystem processor 910, such as any of the information described above.The computer operator, e.g. driver of the vehicle, can respond via thecomputer over a suitable connection. Similar transactions to thosedescribed above can thus be handled. Moreover, the computer can havesuitable storage capacity for maintaining information concerning avariety of facilities, including parking facilities in various parts ofthe country. Thus, as the operator travels from city to city, the system902 could be utilized for conveniently and quickly accessing appropriateparking.

[0088] It is to be understood that while certain forms of the presentinvention have been illustrated and described herein, it is not to belimited to the specific forms or arrangement of parts described andshown.

Having thus described the invention, what is claimed as new and desiredto be secured by Letters Patent is:
 1. A user assistance system for aninteractive facility, which includes: a user interface; a detectorassociated with the user interface and adapted for detecting a conditionassociated with an area of the facility and emitting a signalcorresponding to same; a system processor connected to the userinterface and adapted for receiving said condition signal; said systemprocessor storing information conveyed by said signal; an externalcommunications transmitter connected to said system processor andadapted for communicating information concerning said facility; and anexternal communications receiver associated with a message recipient andadapted for receiving information concerning said facility from saidtransmitter.
 2. The system according to claim 1, which includes: saidfacility comprising a parking structure; and said system processorstoring GPS coordinates for parking spaces and said receiver receivingGPS coordinates for available parking spaces and being adapted to guidea user thereto using a GPS-based navigational system.
 3. The systemaccording to claim 1 wherein the user interface includes: a stationlocated within said parking facility and including a light fixture, saidstation being associated with a plurality of parking spaces; and saidlight fixture including a signal for signaling the location of anavailable parking space to a user.
 4. The system according to claim 1,which includes: a vehicle detector comprising an infrared sensor.
 5. Thesystem according to claim 1, which includes: a vehicle detectorcomprising a motion sensor.
 6. The system according to claim 1, whichincludes: an emergency assistance device connected to said receiver andadapted for summoning emergency assistance upon activation by a user. 7.The system according to claim 1, which includes: said system processorstoring GPS coordinates associated with parking facility entrances andexits and being adapted for communicating same through said externalcommunications transmitter to said receiver.
 8. The system according toclaim 1, which includes: said external communications being wireless. 9.The system according to claim 8, which includes: said externalcommunications comprising radio frequency (RF) equipment.
 10. The systemaccording to claim 1, which includes: said receiver comprising apersonal data assistance.
 11. The system according to claim 1, whichincludes: said communications link between said transmitter and saidreceiver comprising a hardwired connection.
 12. The system according toclaim 1, which includes: said communications link between saidtransmitter and said receiver comprising a worldwide web or intranetnetwork connection.
 13. The system according to claim 1, which includes:said receiver including a personal computer.
 14. The system according toclaim 1 wherein said facility comprises a parking structure withmultiple parking spaces.
 15. The system according to claim 14 whereinsaid information concerning said parking facility relates to theavailability of parking spaces on certain levels within a multi-levelparking facility.
 16. The system according to claim 14 wherein saidinformation includes the availability and GPS coordinates of individualparking spaces.
 17. The system according claim 1 wherein said facilitycomprises a warehouse and said vehicle detector is adapted for detectingservice vehicles within said warehouse and emitting anti-collisionwarning signals.
 18. The system according claim 1 wherein said detectoris incorporated as an original manufacturer component in equipmentcomponents installed in the facility.
 19. The system according claim 1wherein said system is retrofit to existing components or equipment. 20.The system according to claim 1, which includes: a display associatedwith said receiver and adapted for displaying information concerningsaid facility.
 21. The system according claim 20, which includes: saiddisplay including a light emitting component for displaying informationconcerning said facility.
 22. The system according to claim 21, whichincludes: a preprogrammed display code with different light signalemissions corresponding to different conditions associated with saidfacility.
 23. The system according claim 22, which includes: saiddisplay code utilizing multiple display colors, each identifying arespective condition of said facility.
 24. The system according to claim23 wherein a first color identifies a moving vehicle, a second coloridentifies a person present and a third color identifies an availableparking space.
 25. The system according to claim 22 wherein said codeincludes pulsating and constant illumination conditions of said lightemitting component.
 26. In combination with a parking structure withmultiple parking spaces, the improvement of a parking assistance system,which comprises: a station associated with a plurality of parking spacesand including a light fixture, said light fixture being adapted toreceive data input and transfer data output; a vehicle detectorassociated with said light fixture and directed towards at least oneparking space for determining the presence or absence of a vehicletherein; an input device connected to said vehicle detector and adaptedfor providing a signal to said light fixture, said signal identifyingthe occupied/unoccupied status of the parking space; a system processorconnected to said light fixture and adapted to receive data inputsignals therefrom, said system processor storing GPS coordinatesassociated with said parking spaces and storing the occupied/unoccupiedstatus of same; an external communications transmitter associated withsaid system processor and adapted for transmitting parking space statussignals including GPS coordinates associated therewith; avehicle-mounted GPS navigation system; a vehicle-mounted receiveradapted to receive signals corresponding to the vehicle position withrespect to unoccupied parking spaces within the parking structure; adisplay mounted in the dash of said vehicle for graphically displayingthe vehicle position with respect to said unoccupied parking spaces; andsaid system being adapted to display the location of available parkingspaces with respect to said vehicle utilizing their respective GPScoordinates.
 27. The parking assistance system according to claim 26,which includes: a personal data assistant adapted to receive informationfrom said system processor.
 28. The parking assistance system accordingto claim 26, which includes: said communications link between saidtransmitter and said receiver comprising a radio frequency (RF)connection.
 29. The parking assistance system according to claim 26,which includes: said communications link between said transmitter andsaid receiver comprising a worldwide web or intranet network connection.30. The parking assistance system according to claim 26, which includes:said receiver including a personal computer.
 31. In combination with aparking structure with multiple parking spaces, the improvement of aparking assistance system, which comprises: a station associated with aplurality of parking spaces and including a light fixture, said lightfixture being adapted to receive input signals identifying theoccupied/unoccupied status of individual parking spaces, store said dataand output said data; a wireless vehicle detector associated with saidlight fixture and directed towards at least one parking space fordetermining the presence or absence of a vehicle therein; a signalproducing device connected to said vehicle detector and adapted forproviding an input signal to said light fixture, said input signalidentifying the occupied/unoccupied status of a parking space; a motionsensor associated with said light fixture and adapted for providinginput corresponding to motion in the vicinity of said light fixture,said motion sensor being adapted to detect movement of a vehicle or aperson; a system processor connected to said light fixture and adaptedto receive data input signals therefrom, said system processor storingGPS coordinates associated with said parking spaces, theoccupied/unoccupied status of same and the corresponding movement ofvehicles and/or people in the vicinity of same; an externalcommunications transmitter associated with said system processor andadapted for transmitting parking space status signals including GPScoordinates associated therewith; a receiver associated with a parkingfacility user and adapted to receive signals from said transmitter, saidreceiver including output adapted for communicating parking space statusinformation to the user; and an emergency assistance communicationsdevice associated with said receiver and adapted for said user to summonemergency assistance in response to a predetermined output signaltherefrom.